My name is Sheena, and I’ve been struggling with homelessness on and off since 2016 after being kicked out by my family. It’s been a long and difficult journey trying to find stability, and I’ve often had to face these challenges alone. Despite my best efforts, it’s been hard to secure steady housing and meet my basic needs without support.

Right now, I’m living in my car. My gas light is on, I need an oil change, and I haven’t been able to bathe in a few days. I would love the simple comfort of washing my hair and having a cooked meal. I’m about to start two jobs, which is a huge step forward, but I need help with gas, car maintenance, and a safe place to stay—ideally a hotel for the month—so I can focus on work and rebuilding my life. Having a phone is also essential for staying in touch with employers and accessing resources.

One of my biggest hopes is to reunite with my two cats, Ambrose and Sirius. They’ve been in foster care for over a year, and I miss them every day. Ambrose and Sirius are both black cats—my favorite—and their playful energy and affection always brought me comfort. I can’t wait to have them back with me, to hear their purrs and feel them curled up by my side at night. Your support will help me take these next steps toward stability and bring my little family back together.

I am also halfway through writing a book about my experiences, hoping to help others find strength in their own struggles. My story covers not only my experiences with an abusive family, but also the challenges I’ve faced with friends, colleagues, and people I’ve met along the way. Through my writing, I want to show the importance of having a strong sense of self and not placing your worth in the hands of others. I hope my journey can inspire others to keep going, no matter how hard things get.